Tag Archives: professional air conditioning

Heat Pump Installation Ashburn VA

Why Carrier’s Comfort 15 Heat Pump is a Smart Investment

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With winter on the horizon, many homeowners are dreading the high utility bills they’ll face for indoor heating. Some believe these costs are a necessary evil, but improvements in heat pump technology have proven otherwise. Indeed, heat pumps increase central heating systems’ durability, decrease their environmental impact, and boost their efficiency to slash energy bills. The Comfort 15 Heat Pump from Carrier, in particular, leverages impressive efficiency at an affordable rate. Consider the benefits of a new heat pump installation when your outdated unit costs you a fortune.

For over 45 years, R. A. Dobson has provided Ashburn, VA, homeowners with effective HVAC, water heater, and plumbing solutions. Highly trained technicians perform our installation and maintenance services, and we honor all manufacturer warranties. For headache-free and satisfactory heating solutions, call (703) 481-3700 today. 

Below, we discuss why the Comfort 15 Heat Pump is for you:

Carrier 15 Heat Pump Features

  • Efficiency: On the SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Radio) rating, heat pumps are scored on their ability to heat and cool, with higher SEER2 scores representing greater efficiency. The Comfort 15 boasts a SEER2 score of 15.2. In comparison, units that are 10+ years old are likely to have a SEER of around 10.
  • Durability: Dents, scratches, and outdoor wear-and-tear are no match for the galvanized steel cabinet, heavy-duty wire coil guard, and baked-on powder paint of the Comfort 15 Heat Pump. Manufacturers can also fit comfort series models with WeatherShield™ technology for long-lasting corrosion resistance.
  • Hybrid Heat System: Like other Carrier heat pumps, the Comfort 15 design is hybrid heat system compatible, which can help you save on utility bills during the winter. By combining this electric heat pump with a Carrier gas furnace and compatible thermostat, the Carrier Hybrid system automatically switches between electric and gas heating to optimize the system’s efficiency. For example, when the temperature drops below 40 degrees, the heat pump turns off and the gas-fired furnace kicks in. This innovative dual-fuel system ensures maximum year-round comfort.
  • Eco-Friendly: Carrier was the first manufacturer to offer systems with Puron refrigerant, a contemporary solution to environmental concerns. Older heat pump models use the refrigerant R22, a substance that contributes to harmful ozone depletion. Replacing an older, less efficient heat pump with a Carrier product thus reduces energy use and your environmental impact.
  • Low Sound: Comfort shouldn’t come at the expense of your hearing. In addition to optimal temperature control, the Carrier 15 has a quiet operation that goes as low as 69 decibels (for reference, normal conversation is between 60-70 decibels). Protect your ears by opting for a heat pump designed with your comfort in mind.

Innovation at an Affordable Price

Heat Pump Installation Ashburn VA

Air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps typically last between 15 and 20 years. After years of wear and tear, they lose their temperature control efficiency, which increases energy bills and expensive maintenance. So, rather than wasting money on repairs for an inefficient and antiquated heat pump, enjoy the Comfort 15’s long-term energy savings. Heat pump installation costs incurred by this upgrade are offset by reduced energy consumption and a higher durability standard.

Professional Heat Pump Installation in Ashburn, VA!

Rely on the professionals at R. A. Dobson for cost-effective and high-quality heat pump installations and repairs. As a second-generation family business, we provide the latest energy-efficient HVAC technology to Ashburn, VA, residents. Benefit from decades of experience and industry knowledge by calling (703) 481-3700 to schedule an HVAC service today.

Air Conditioning Installation Ashburn VA

The Best Carrier Air Conditioners for Your Home

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Carrier has manufactured indoor cooling units since their founder, Willis Carrier, invented the first modern air conditioning system in 1902. The company is now a leader in home comfort products, ranging from air conditioners to furnaces. If you want to invest in a new air conditioner before summer begins, look no further than the Carrier Comfort 15, Carrier Comfort 16, the Infinity 18VS, and the Infinity 19VS. Moreover, R.A. Dobson’s reliable air conditioning installation team can install your new unit at a low price so you can stay comfortable year-round.

A 2nd-generation family business with decades of experience, R.A. Dobson provides air conditioning installation—among other home services—for Ashburn, VA, homeowners. Our handiwork endures, and our service exceeds expectations every time. To contact an air conditioning installation professional, call (703) 481-3700 or visit our website today.

Below, we detail some of the best Carrier air conditioners available:

The Carrier Comfort 15

Anyone looking for simple, efficient, and affordable cooling need look no further than the Carrier Comfort 15 air conditioner. Given a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating of 14 and an affordable price, it checks every box. It has a single-stage scroll compressor—a specially designed compressor that works in a circular motion rather than an up-and-down piston action—and comes with WeatherArmor protection.

When you upgrade from a less energy-efficient system to one such as the Carrier Comfort 15, your energy bill will shrink. This model balances budget limits and a desire for long-term energy savings. Moreover, its quiet operation is gentle on the ears—as low as 72 decibels!

The Carrier Comfort 16

Equipped with up to 16.5 SEER efficiency, the Carrier Comfort 16 has an eco-friendly refrigerant and high- and low-pressure switches for optimal cooling. Like the Carrier Comfort 15, it uses a single-stage compressor to give you the most bang for your buck. It’s a heavy-gauge, galvanized steel construction with a baked-on powder coat paint. 

Carrier units utilize Puron refrigerant, an environmentally sound option that doesn’t deplete the ozone layer and comes at a low lifetime service cost. The Carrier Comfort Series air conditioners also have a 10-year exchanger limited warranty.

The Infinity 18VS

Heat pumps, similar to air conditioners, are installed outside to heat or cool your home depending upon the season. The Infinity 18VS heat pump offers variable-speed compression, and its low speeds create quiet operation. Its long runtime allows hot and cold indoor air to mix and create a comfortable temperature. It has a SEER rating of 19 and requires no excess electricity—what’s not to love?

The Infinity 19VS

Air Conditioning Installation Ashburn VA

With its small cabinet and 19 SEER rating, the Infinity 19VS Carrier unit offers a high-efficiency, variable speed performance. The variable speed inverter capacity control delivers up to 5 stages of operation for exceptional load matching, dehumidification, and zoning performance. It works with many indoor units and controls, fitting seamlessly into any household.

Its Infinity Control allows you to program your system’s settings and remind you when to conduct maintenance. Chat with a professional air conditioning installation team if you have questions about air conditioning repairs, replacements, and more.

Affordable Air Conditioning Installation in Ashburn, VA

R.A. Dobson provides professional air conditioning installation services to homeowners in Ashburn, VA. We also offer a 1-year service warranty and respect all manufacturer warranties. Between HVAC systems and air cleaners, we can deliver comfort to our customers’ homes. To learn more about our air conditioning installation process, call (703) 481-3700.

AC Repair Ashburn, VA

A Guide to HVAC Warranties

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Few home system breakdowns are as disruptive as HVAC breakdowns. Indeed, homeowners seem to forget the luxuries of A/C until their homes become saunas or igloos. To be frank, these situations require emergency repairs, which tend to be expensive. A new installation can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $7,500, and homeowners insurance won’t cover wear and tear from regular use or breakdowns due to old age. Yet home, manufacturer, and extended warranties can offset the cost of professional A/C repair and protect you from a significant hit to your bank account. 

R.A. Dobson offers HVAC services to homeowners in the Alexandria, VA, area. We provide top-notch services, including installing, maintaining, and repairing state-of-the-art Carrier air conditioners. Moreover, we offer a 1-year service warranty and honor all manufacturer warranties. For a client-centered HVAC service that cares, contact us at (703) 481-3700 today.

Below, we discuss different HVAC warranties to choose from:

Home Warranties

When you sign up for a home warranty, you agree to pay a monthly or annual fee—along with a service fee—to anticipate the ups and downs of home systems care. In contrast to homeowners insurance, a home warranty covers HVAC breakdowns from regular wear and tear. Predictable, slashed costs are often much more appealing to homeowners than unplanned, steep repair or replacement costs. 

You can choose from numerous providers with plans providing varying coverage for your HVAC system. Thoroughly examine the service contract before committing to a plan. Ensure the warranty you choose covers A/C and heating since they tend to be listed as separate units. 

HVAC Manufacturer Warranties

Many HVAC manufacturers will offer a warranty of their own. Although offerings vary, this type of warranty will often cover product defects and consequential repairs. Moreover, if you register your HVAC system with the manufacturer within two months or another specified time frame, you can sometimes receive perks or an upgraded warranty. 

Know there are government regulations surrounding manufacturer warranties as well. For instance, system buyers must access a limited warranty before purchasing. Also, manufacturers can’t force customers to register their products to maintain their limited warranty protection. Instead, they can offer incentives, as mentioned above.

HVAC Extended Warranties

AC Repair Ashburn, VA

You can also purchase an extended warranty, which extends coverage beyond the manufacturer’s original warranty and continues further with your HVAC system’s lifespan. This service contract is presented and agreed to during or after the purchase of your HVAC system.

You can purchase an HVAC extended warranty from the manufacturer or a third-party provider. Wielding this knowledge, you have the opportunity to navigate a variety of plans and choose the best one for you. 

R.A. Dobson: Professional A/C Repair and Replacement in Alexandria, VA

R.A. Dobson is your expert A/C repair provider operating in Alexandria, VA. A 2nd-generation family business with decades of experience, you can trust workmanship that lasts and service that exceeds expectations. Moreover, you can expect service and manufacturer warranties that protect your home, comfort, and finances. Contact us online or call us today at (703) 481-3700.

Humidifier Repair Ashburn VA

Benefits of an Aprilaire 800 Residential Steam Humidifier

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If you want professional humidifier repair or installation, invest in a system that provides the best bang for your buck. R.A. Dobson’s expert team recommends the Aprilaire 800 Residential Steam Humidifier, as it delivers health benefits and effectively combats the effects of poor indoor air. Nevertheless, these advantages hinge upon proper installation and maintenance.

R.A. Dobson specializes in providing home climate-control systems to folks in and around Ashburn, VA. We offer cutting-edge technology as well as outstanding customer service, built upon decades of experience. Moreover, we honor all manufacturer warranties and provide a 1-year warranty on our services. For a free project estimate, visit our website or call us at (703) 481-3700.

Below, we outline the benefits of humidifiers and the Aprilaire 800 system:

Humidifier System Types and Benefits

Although several home remedies can increase a building’s indoor humidity, mechanical humidifiers are designed to perform this specific task. Several different technologies can achieve this goal, but the most common kinds of humidifier systems are steam, impeller, ultrasonic, and wick.

Although each system comes with pros and cons, the benefits of humidifiers include:

  • Preventing respiratory illnesses like influenza
  • Easing coughs
  • Reducing snoring
  • Moistening building occupants’ skin and hair
  • Invigorating materials (and plants!) within a building

The Aprilaire 800 Residential Steam Humidifier

Humidifier Repair Ashburn VA

As its name suggests, the Aprilaire system operates using steam. It needs only simple upkeep: replace the machine’s canister—which contains electrodes that heat the water—with a new one at the end of peak usage season. That said, system repairs require a professional due to the Aprilaire’s delicate technology.

This humidifier can cover up to 5,200 square feet in an average interior. It works best in dry climates as well as those that undergo mild winters. The water it uses need not be purified; indeed, water impurities help transfer electrical charges.

Aprilaire 800 comes with digital, easy-to-use controls. Its dual sensor automatic setting tracks both outdoor temperature and indoor relative humidity to determine the optimal level for an individual structure. Finally, it aims to set an indoor humidity level between 40% – 60%, which curtails bacterial and fungal formation as well as allergy and asthma symptoms.

Humidifier Repair and Installation Available in Ashburn, VA!

You can boost your home’s comfort with one of the best humidifiers on the market. If you already own a system, turn to a humidifier repair service provider for inspection and updates. R.A. Dobson provides such options to homeowners throughout Ashburn, VA. We are a second-generation family business that aims to deliver high-quality services at affordable rates. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 or visit our website for more information!

HVAC inspection Leesburg VA

5 Ways to Make Your HVAC System More Efficient

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Heating and cooling bills are among the largest expenses in most homes, so everyone wants to minimize these costs. But how can you increase your HVAC system’s efficiency? Some proven methods include adjusting your thermostat to the season, closing curtains and blinds, and keeping vents unobstructed. Most importantly, hire a professional for a thorough HVAC inspection annually to ensure your system continues functioning at high capacity.

R.A. Dobson is a heating, air conditioning, and plumbing company that operates in Ashburn, VA. As a 2nd-generation family business, we understand the ins and outs of owning and managing a home. This knowledge helps us provide the outstanding support, guidance, and customer service that our satisfied customers report. For more information on how we can help you, contact us at (703) 481-3700.

Below, we outline 5 ways to make your HVAC system more efficient:

Adjust Your Thermostat to the Season

As the outdoor climate warms and cools throughout the year, make a note to adjust your thermostat accordingly. During the summer, reset the indoor temperature to between 5-8 degrees higher than your “normal” level. In the winter, reset the temperature in the opposite direction.

You might find a programmable thermostat helpful in this effort. You can use its capabilities to automatically adjust the temperature for different seasons, times of day (like when you’re away from home), and even rooms in your home.

2. Maintain Accurate Thermostat Readings

Consider installing separate thermostats on different levels of your home so that each can provide as accurate a reading as possible. Doing so not only increases your HVAC system’s efficiency but also allows you to administer different temperatures at different levels of your home. Programmable thermostats can automatically accomplish this zoning effect for optimal energy efficiency.

Also, refrain from placing heat-producing appliances close to your thermostat. Doing so could compel your HVAC system to cool your home further than you wish. During the winter, a proximate heat-producing appliance to your thermostat would make your HVAC system use less energy but also make your thermostat inaccurate.

3. Close Your Curtains & Blinds

During the summer, close your curtains and blinds to prevent sunlight from heating your home’s interior. This effect occurs in the same way that the sun heats a car. By closing your curtains and blinds on hot summer days, you block the sun’s rays. Doing so can help you save on air conditioning costs.

Additionally, closing your curtains and blinds during the winter prevents cold air from seeping inside through the windows. Only open your curtains in the winter when sunlight is coming through and angle your blinds up towards the ceiling.

4. Use Heat-Producing Appliances Sparingly & Keep Vents Unblocked

Heat-producing appliances, like the oven and dryer, generate warm air. So, using them during the hottest time of the day forces your HVAC system to work harder to cool your house. Try to plan out how you use heat-producing appliances accordingly.

Also, keep your air vents unobstructed so that your HVAC system can do its job. This requires moving various items, like furniture and toys, away from all indoor supply vents. Doing so will promote steady airflow and prevent your system from overworking.

5. Hire a Professional HVAC Company

Finally, employ a service company to provide maintenance as well as parts repair and replacement for your HVAC system. A capable HVAC professional can handle all your system’s complex needs, including cleaning your outdoor condenser unit, vacuuming indoor vents, clearing your drain line, and insulating exposed ductwork.

HVAC inspection Leesburg VA

R.A. Dobson: Expert HVAC Inspections Available in Leesburg, VA

R.A. Dobson provides professional HVAC inspections to homeowners in the Leesburg, VA, area. From HVAC systems to air cleaners, we provide our customers with systems that keep their homes comfortable. We also offer a 1-year service warranty and respect all manufacturer warranties. For an HVAC service provider that you can trust, contact R.A. Dobson at (703) 481-3700 today.

HVAC Companies Ashburn VA

When to Repair and When to Replace Your HVAC System

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A reliable HVAC system is essential to comfortable indoor living. Moreover, regular maintenance helps keep that system in optimal condition. But what should you do when your system ceases to work? To determine whether your HVAC system requires a simple repair or full-scale replacement, consider its age and operating status as well as unusual changes in its behavior. A trustworthy HVAC company in your area can determine what your system needs.

R.A. Dobson offers HVAC repair and replacement services in Ashburn, VA. A second-generation family company operating since 1975, we offer a 1-year service warranty and honor all manufacturer warranties. Our trained and certified technicians provide outstanding service and aim for customer satisfaction. Contact us today at (703) 481-3700!

Below, we consider several questions, the answers to which indicate whether you need an HVAC repair or replacement:

  1. How Old Is Your HVAC System?

Air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps all have a lifespan of about 15-20 years. Yet their exact lifespan depends on each system’s environment, brand, model, maintenance, and use. 

You should consider units at less than half the age of their life expectancy worth repairing once. However, further breakdowns indicate a need for replacement. You should also replace units that require repairs amounting to more than half the cost of replacement. 

Additionally, outdated models can pose problems even if they still operate properly. For instance, furnace models from before 2015 have a lower efficiency compliance level than models from after, which can result in higher energy bills. Also, air conditioners that use Freon should be replaced, as the US no longer allows the production of Freon.

  1. Is It Operating Effectively?

Inconsistent temperatures throughout your home may signal that you should replace your HVAC system. As your system ages, it loses its ability to create an even temperature throughout your home.

Some issues—such as low fluid levels, cracked ducts, and clogged filters—can often be repaired with ease. Likewise, issues with your thermostat can be corrected readily. Whatever the problem, have your system inspected to determine the source of the problem.

  1. Has Your Energy Bill Increased?

Your energy bill should remain consistent aside from slight variations between seasons. If you notice your energy bill steadily increasing, you may have a broken or outdated system. If repairs or a replacement system fails to solve the problem, you may need to have your home inspected for air leaks.

  1. Have You Noticed Unusual Signs?

Older units often make unusual noises that should be inspected. Screeching and grinding, for instance, indicate that your system may need replacement.

Other unusual signs, including increased dust and humidity as well as strange odors, come from problems that can be repaired. Do not overlook these issues, however, as they may spring from a gas leak, burning wire, or something else serious. Better to take precautions than to deal with a broken-down HVAC system.

R.A. Dobson: A Leader Among HVAC Companies in Ashburn, VA

HVAC Companies Ashburn VA

Rely on R.A. Dobson, a leader among HVAC companies in Ashburn, VA. We offer regular repairs and installations for furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps. Select from several energy-efficient Carrier products, along with quality craftsmanship, to ensure your family’s comfort. Contact us at (703) 481-3700 for a free estimate. 

Air Conditioning Installation Ashburn VA

How to Choose the Best Air Conditioning System

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With summer approaching quickly, you should determine whether your HVAC system needs repairs or replacement. To help with that, the R.A. Dobson team offers professional HVAC inspection, air conditioning installation, and routine maintenance. Plus, we can assist you in finding a new HVAC system by considering the various types, sizes, features, and more. 

R.A. Dobson has served folks in Ashburn, VA, and the surrounding area for nearly 50 years. Our expert team handles water heaters, plumbing, heating, generator, humidifier, and more concerns. We believe that excellent customer service comes from attention to detail, expertise, and treating customers like family. We honor all manufacturer warranties and offer 1 year of service warranty. Contact us to learn more today!

Below, we list and describe five factors that you should consider before purchasing a new HVAC system:

  1. Air Conditioner Type

First, examine which type of air conditioner fits your cooling needs. Although we can advise you on all types, R.A. Dobson installs and repairs central units. This kind is the traditional choice for homeowners; it pumps cool air throughout a structure via ductwork. Given their complexity, central air units require professional installation.

  1. Output Size

Once you determine your particular cooling needs, start considering what size output you require. This will depend on the square footage in your home, so we suggest that you find that output number then speak with R.A. Dobson to choose the right model.  

  1. Efficiency

One of the best reasons to purchase a new model AC unit is for their increased efficiency. Older units (even just a few years old) have lower SEER efficiency ratings than the newest models. This means that you pay more for the energy spent on an old unit.

Thus, a newer model could pay for itself in your savings on repairs and replacement parts. We offer Carrier products designed for energy efficiency, air purifying, as well as enhanced cooling. 

  1. Features

Along with greater efficiency, recent-model AC units offer a variety of features for better performance. The most popular of these: smart thermostats. These devices have all the benefits of smart technology, so they can learn your AC usage patterns and adjust accordingly. You can also control smart thermostats from your phone whenever it’s connected to Wi-Fi.

Also, almost all AC units come with a “fan only” option so that you can keep your indoor climate temperate. In addition to this, they have auto delay switches that help reduce cool air waste. It’s one more feature that can help you save money on energy bills.

  1. Warranties

One further factor that you should consider is an AC unit’s warranty. Virtually all recent-model AC units carry a warranty, which ensures that you are satisfied with the product. However, warranties differ in the length of their active periods as much as their coverages. 

For example, some warranties cover entire air conditioning units while others cover certain parts in these units. Generally, central air units have greater coverage – but you should always double-check possible purchases. Of course, R.A. Dobson offers 1 year of warranty on all our work. 

Professional Air Conditioning Installation and Repair in Ashburn, VA

Use this moment before the summer heat to ensure that you have a cool home for your family. Reach out to R.A. Dobson and schedule an air conditioning installation service or inspection. We have provided Ashburn, VA, residents support with plumbing, heating, generator, and more services since 1975. Our team offers the latest efficient heating and air conditioning technology. So, call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form for more information!

Duct Cleaning Service Ashburn VA

Reasons to Have Your Air Ducts Cleaned

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The phrase “air ducts are the lungs of your home” illustrates the role that your HVAC system plays. It also suggests the crucial benefits that clean air ducts provide: reduced allergy symptoms, improved energy efficiency, and more. So, if you’ve neglected to invest in a professional duct cleaning service, reach out to R.A. Dobson now. 

Our service company has served Ashburn, VA, and the surrounding area since 1975. We are committed to helping homeowners and businesses with water heaters, plumbing, HVAC, furnaces, air cleaners, and more installation services. Plus, by honoring all manufacturer warranties and providing exceptional customer service, we help to support our community. Visit our website now to learn more about our exclusive online coupons. 

Below, we list some questions to determine your air ducts’ condition as well as a rationale for getting them cleaned:

Some Initial Questions

To begin, investigate whether your air ducts have ever been cleaned before. If you can’t find out, assume that they have not. Also, note whether dust covers surfaces that you clean frequently. Dust that accumulates in ductwork can spread throughout a structure due to airflow.

Furthermore, ask yourself: do your allergy symptoms increase when you turn the AC on? Or – if you suffer from asthma – does your condition worsen even though you’re taking your medicine? Your health can indicate the amount of dust is present in the air. 

Beyond dust, a few other things can contaminate your air ducts. Mold, rodents, and pests can live and grow in ductwork – they all pose health risks to your home’s occupants. Simply removing such contaminants is a strong reason to have your ducts cleaned. 

Why You Should Have Air Ducts Cleaned

Beyond removing pollutants, you should have your air ducts cleaned to: 

  1. Reduce allergies
    While you may work hard to keep out pollen, dust mites exist at much higher levels indoors than out. They get caught in your home’s airflow, circulating through the ducts and triggering residents’ allergy symptoms.

    Allergy symptoms should lessen once the air ducts are clean. Plus, removing dust from your house’s airflow should result in less dust falling on indoor surfaces. This is why we suggest putting air ducts on your spring cleaning list.
  2. Reduce the air pollutant level
    Besides dust, air ducts can host several other contaminants. These may include invasive visitors (such as the mold, rodents, and pests mentioned above) as well as chemicals. For instance, gas arising from a paint stripper in one room may circulate throughout a structure.

    In the US, adults spend a lot of their time indoors – up to 90% of it. Thus, cleaning air ducts helps to provide healthy indoor air and influences their health.
  3. Save money on bills and repairs
    If your home’s air ducts have never been cleaned, a build-up of dust and contaminants may undermine your system’s performance. And that reduced efficiency creates higher energy bills. Furthermore, regular cleanings help to avoid malfunctions by catching mechanical problems early.

    Investing in a duct cleaning service, then, pays for itself in the long run. You can enjoy improved cooling capabilities, which place less strain on the HVAC system. Plus, you can avoid expensive repairs and/or system replacements.
  4. “Refresh” your space
    Finally, you should always have a professional duct cleaning when you move into or out of a house. Doing so “refreshes” it, which benefits the home’s new residents by removing any built-up dust. Furthermore, since moving in and out can kick up quite a bit of dust, cleaning pulls it out of circulation.

Efficient Duct Cleaning Services Available for Ashburn, VA, Homes and Businesses

If “air ducts are the lungs of your home,” give them the best possible services. Call R.A. Dobson for professional duct cleaning service as well as plumbing, heat pumps, air handlers, and more. We’ve provided top-notch service work to Ashburn, VA, residents for almost 50 years, keeping their homes in good working order. So, call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form for a free estimate request.

air purifier installation Loudoun County VA

Does Your Home Need A Whole-House Air Purifier?

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Air-tight insulation is standard for almost every home in the United States. According to the Department of Energy, keeping the movement of air between the inside and outside of your home to a minimum helps sustain greater energy efficiency. This means that your home should be airtight. However, without a proper whole-house air purifier, this leads to stale, musty air filled with dust, dander, and all sorts of other contaminants. 

At R.A. Dobson, we help maintain indoor air quality through HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance services. Particularly during this challenging pandemic, we have assisted in keeping numerous homes safe with our expert air purifier installation services in Loudoun County and throughout Northern Virginia. Our experts have had over 40 years of experience in giving their knowledge, experience, and friendly support to our new and repeat customers. 

Below, we discuss what a whole-house air purifier is, why you may need one, and the different kinds available that your home may benefit from: 

What is a Whole-House Air Purifier?

A whole-house air purifier is an air-filtration system that’s connected directly to your home’s HVAC system. They can be retrofitted or installed into a newly-built house, but it must be installed by a professional because it attaches to the return-air ductwork in your ventilation system. 

It works by taking the air that’s returning to your cooling or heating system and filtering out any contaminants before sending air back out into your home. There are different types of whole-house air purifiers that use different methods to effectively purify your home’s indoor air. 

Below, we list a few that we provide at R.A. Dobson and can install efficiently. 

Types of Whole-House Air Purifiers 

Flat-Filter Purifier

If you have a forced-air furnace, which is common in most homes, you may already be using this type of air purifier. It uses a matted-fiberglass filter that picks up the dust flowing in your ventilation system. 

It doesn’t purify the air as effectively as others do. It merely filters large dust particles from building up in your furnace. However, you can purchase electrostatically-charged pleated filters, which can attract more allergens in the air, though they cost slightly more than the regular filters. 

Extended Media Purifier

This type of air purifier has a filter that’s more efficient than regular fiberglass filters. It comes in a boxier unit containing an accordion-like array of filtration media. It’s larger size and shape make it more effective. It also requires a professional to install and is perhaps cheaper to use as you only have to spend $40 to $60 a year for a replacement filter. 

Electronic Purifier

This high-end air purifier, also known as an electrostatic precipitator, has an electronic filter that is installed into the return-air ductwork. As air passes, one end creates a high-voltage current that sends an electrical charge through any particle that passes through it. 

At the other end, negatively-charged collector plates grab the charged particles. They may be more expensive but are highly effective at trapping particles too small for regular fiberglass filters and extended media filters. They also don’t require any replacement filters, just regular cleaning of the collection plates. 

Ultraviolet Purifier

This type of purifier is specifically-utilized to filter and eliminate any airborne viruses or bacteria that pass through it. It’s primarily used in hospitals, particularly in tuberculosis wards in order to protect patients from spreading the illness. Any viral or bacterial organism that enters the filter will immediately be killed by the UV rays. Of course, these are similarly more costly compared to electronic purifiers, but means they are just as effective. 

Does Your Home Need a Whole-House Air Purifier?

According to a report from the Washington Post, whole-home air purifiers are not a cure to allergies and illness. However, they are a good way to effectively prevent these issues. 

They also provide your home with better indoor air quality, which has numerous benefits to you and your home, including fewer, less frequent allergy symptoms, better sleep, reduced humidity, and lower energy costs. 

To make a well-informed decision, consider seeking a professional to perform an indoor air evaluation for your home, and discuss with them whether an air purifier can help. 

R.A. Dobson: Affordable Air Purifier Installation in Loudoun County, VA

Whether you need an air purifier is debatable, but it is no less a beneficial addition to a ventilation system. At R.A. Dobson, we can provide many brands and models of air purifiers, as well as quality air purifier installation services, all at affordable prices. In Loudoun County and throughout Northern Virginia, we have provided our numerous services to residents seeking to improve the comfort and quality of their indoor air. 

Contact us at (703) 481-3700 to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment with one of our indoor air experts today.

HVAC inspection Northern Virginia

3 Fall & Winter HVAC Maintenance Tips

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We’ve come to summer’s end, and the yearly rituals of fall have begun (though limited by COVID). Football season has restarted, everyone has pumpkin spiced coffee, and the evening cicadas have given way to crickets. Best of all, we can shut off our AC units and their costs. 

The cooler weather calls for another kind of indoor climate control: heating. So, while switching from one system to the other, all homeowners should check the performance of both. But inspecting an HVAC system is time-consuming and tricky; instead, why not schedule a professional HVAC inspection with R.A. Dobson? Every fall and winter, our expert technicians conduct HVAC inspections across Northern VA. Our clients call for our annual service and, in the long run, save money through routine care. 

Below, we outline how our HVAC inspections work and describe the basic upkeep that your system might receive: 

Scheduled Routine Inspections

The Department of Energy writes that professional checkups and repairs can improve your home’s energy efficiency. But some homeowners like to inspect their HVAC and heating systems themselves. In doing so, they may miss signs that our trained technicians know to look for. 

We’ve described what to expect during an HVAC inspection. In brief, our technician will start by spot-checking your system for obstructions (including dust, debris, and mold). They’ll also look for signs of deeper problems such as leaks, corrosion, rust, or loose wires. 

The technician will then check air filters, electrical switches, safety switches, motors, and gas pressure. This step-by-step process catches any potential problems and ensures that your system works smoothly. 

Vital Preventative Care

After the inspection, our technician will go about basic repairs. He or she may clean and/or replace parts, especially in systems that have not been serviced for several years. 

Some cleaning, such as changing an air filter, will be carried out easily. Our technician may also use a lubricant to ensure that parts function smoothly. However, if specific parts of the HVAC system need to be replaced, he or she may have to order it and return later for installation. 

Finally, to ensure your system functions as best as it can, the technician will test and adjust your HVAC’s electricity. They will also calibrate and adjust your home’s thermostat to establish an ideal indoor temperature. You can read more about thermostat options in our guide. 

Let The Pros Handle Major Repairs

Eventually, you will need a new HVAC (or heating) system. Even if your current system has no specific issues, its efficiency will decrease with age. Plus, modern air systems’ efficiency can be 20%-40% greater than systems produced ten years ago. 

If inspecting an HVAC system feels like a chore, installing one is an outright challenge. Contact your local experts at R.A. Dobson and let us take care of the installation for you. We’ve worked in HVAC for over 45 years, and we’ll ensure that your new system suits your needs. 

R.A. Dobson: Reliable, Reasonable HVAC Inspection Service Professionals 

As the leaves begin changing colors and we move into the fall, don’t forget to have your air systems looked at. Doing so can improve your home’s energy efficiency and catch potential problems before they turn into major ones. Many residents throughout Northern VA call R.A. Dobson for professional HVAC inspection and installation. We’re happy to offer you our expertise too. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form to request a free estimate.